tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-43736363052566126552024-03-05T23:57:38.563-08:00soap, soup and everything in betweenPattihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17610740911981067187noreply@blogger.comBlogger59125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4373636305256612655.post-53927457599389910722017-05-21T11:43:00.001-07:002017-05-21T11:43:37.294-07:00My Crochet Go-To Purse<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm absolutely loving my crochet purse that I made! I take it with me everywhere. Now I can carry whatever I want. I've even got my husband giving me things to carry.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In my other blog, <a href="http://www.createdbypatti.com/"><span style="color: #e06666;">www.createdbypatti.com</span></a>, I posted a guide on how I made it and also instructions on how I lined it so that it doesn't sag. Just click on the link to go and check it out!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://www.createdbypatti.com/2017/05/20/my-crochet-go-to-purse/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;">My Crochet Go-To Purse</span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLxzZNileLhKswCUDbtM-iT1vofRgMViJ6cDkbmlu4rehHZVCJaZ_bbcTvApDtKyeIXpRWSSRI0RnH1U8HgHoQ2TdQwFDUAXhz6KI-2BzauCFbLi85584Ue0SLqvOUhLFwdItKRymrdXcj/s1600/fullsizeoutput_1cb9.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLxzZNileLhKswCUDbtM-iT1vofRgMViJ6cDkbmlu4rehHZVCJaZ_bbcTvApDtKyeIXpRWSSRI0RnH1U8HgHoQ2TdQwFDUAXhz6KI-2BzauCFbLi85584Ue0SLqvOUhLFwdItKRymrdXcj/s400/fullsizeoutput_1cb9.jpeg" width="392" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0rcYcTcSY9pfDCKXVUd-4tcuDx3ZDpqlQ5s9Zp3CDtL2FZG_bLnFre9edO5e13v9nUecRZzOE-iKXORqHIYTCJg13Dj8W9iUc_Cozyft_8W7Y8tvDn5FgojCxx5AWo15t0-qSRuQwD672/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0rcYcTcSY9pfDCKXVUd-4tcuDx3ZDpqlQ5s9Zp3CDtL2FZG_bLnFre9edO5e13v9nUecRZzOE-iKXORqHIYTCJg13Dj8W9iUc_Cozyft_8W7Y8tvDn5FgojCxx5AWo15t0-qSRuQwD672/s640/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="408" /></a></div>
<br />Pattihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17610740911981067187noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4373636305256612655.post-84870249282271248162017-01-28T17:14:00.002-08:002017-01-28T17:19:16.228-08:00I Have a New Blog!I've started a new blog on a different platform and I'm so excited about it! I've branched out a bit and have so many ideas in my head other than soap related items. I really hope you stop by and follow me along as I post my new projects.<br />
<br />
Created By Patti<br />
<a href="http://www.createdbypatti.com/">www.createdbypatti.com</a><br />
<br />Pattihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17610740911981067187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4373636305256612655.post-16553731496392777332017-01-12T09:31:00.002-08:002017-01-12T09:31:52.690-08:00My First Crocheted Blanket<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
One of my first projects I made was a "Chunky Icelandic Crochet Blanket" designed by Jessica from <a href="http://www.mamainastitch.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">Mama In A Stitch</span></a>. The pattern can be found <a href="http://www.mamainastitch.com/chunky-icelandic-crochet-blanket-pattern/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">HERE</span></a>. I instantly fell in love with the design because it was so pretty, yet simple, and most of all, something I could make! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhAAW9SF2vK7zuDnwWO2XRoa5Qfw9oDO1lsltE9pRvWkSUZwp4J5n6prIo2W3sASbZ4A8LjlXnMezjbhHHYgKylKsz1bkgHLUO913QiXwya2FXc396U3OjPZM6vHNxE6YY2ab4sYgWr95a/s1600/thumb_IMG_2719_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhAAW9SF2vK7zuDnwWO2XRoa5Qfw9oDO1lsltE9pRvWkSUZwp4J5n6prIo2W3sASbZ4A8LjlXnMezjbhHHYgKylKsz1bkgHLUO913QiXwya2FXc396U3OjPZM6vHNxE6YY2ab4sYgWr95a/s640/thumb_IMG_2719_1024.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's made using Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick and Quick chunky level 6 yarn in Fisherman. I found mine at <a href="http://www.joann.com/lion-brand-wool-ease-thick-and-quick-yarn/prd12018.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">Joann Fabrics</span></a>. I used 10 skeins total. It's designed with the "Lemon Peel" stitch, which alternates single and double crochets. The result is a lovely, lightly textured blanket. I love it! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ClMroP5Vbg5bhejwmFjsal5EQuUfXTV0PKM1ZyMbYDUPpvr1F8LMcukUJkt9dBmIc4IFlvSZvqWMeI0WFw8ivjn4E8oKakRqNceYbPOT9hRfb4nkzFpqANN3Odu0HUVbw6Pn-oQvDv_F/s1600/thumb_IMG_2720_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ClMroP5Vbg5bhejwmFjsal5EQuUfXTV0PKM1ZyMbYDUPpvr1F8LMcukUJkt9dBmIc4IFlvSZvqWMeI0WFw8ivjn4E8oKakRqNceYbPOT9hRfb4nkzFpqANN3Odu0HUVbw6Pn-oQvDv_F/s640/thumb_IMG_2720_1024.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I was supposed to use a size P (11.5 mm) hook, but I got confused when I was buying my hook. I was still unfamiliar with hook sizes and the importance of them in the final product. I accidentally bought a <a href="http://www.hobbylobby.com/Yarn-Needle-Art/Crochet/Crochet-Hooks-Tools/Size-P/Q-Ergonomic-Crochet-Hook/p/35502" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">P/Q (15 mm) hook</span></a> at Hobby Lobby. I should've looked at JoAnn Fabrics first and bought <a href="http://www.joann.com/crochet-dude-plastic-hook-set-sizes-l--p--and-q/10197457.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">THIS</span></a> instead. I think it resulted in my blanket being a little looser, but I still love it. I see myself making another one in the future with a P hook.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgro4d3veLB6p2WoEu_qoDU-AYaDAy1TTSD0YOQD1MUU6wc04qiiCjlGQ9igj9eAmp84OLzpPxtR1wVE34CzYsnzbzVZWy4b6veRPsFuLu7xzQABW3X7DZgcQNp-R_Gfqnc1IdDO1MMwDBE/s1600/thumb_IMG_2723_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgro4d3veLB6p2WoEu_qoDU-AYaDAy1TTSD0YOQD1MUU6wc04qiiCjlGQ9igj9eAmp84OLzpPxtR1wVE34CzYsnzbzVZWy4b6veRPsFuLu7xzQABW3X7DZgcQNp-R_Gfqnc1IdDO1MMwDBE/s640/thumb_IMG_2723_1024.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The final size for my blanket was 40 inches wide by 68 inches long. It's just wide enough and long enough to take a nap under or lay on top of my bed to keep me extra cozy at night. It's 20% wool and has a heaviness to it that really clings to me to keep me warm. Did I mention I love it? I highly recommend the pattern for beginners and it was written perfectly. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Pattihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17610740911981067187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4373636305256612655.post-29437891252755577282017-01-11T12:32:00.001-08:002017-01-11T12:56:53.227-08:00I'm Crochet Obsessed!My latest obsession is crocheting. I can't believe I forgot that I knew how to crochet. I learned a long time ago before high school. I've made afghans in the past, but those always took so long and I lost interest. This was also before YouTube and internet! Okay, there was internet, but not idea sharing or anything. <br />
<br />
My poor knee has been injured all summer and I was pretty much going crazy and decided the one thing I can do is crochet. It's perfect to keep the brain occupied and my mind off my injury. I'm still injured, but luckily I can cross-country ski this winter and keep me half sane. <br />
<br />
So far I've made hats, scarves, a poncho, a cocoon shawl/wrap, and a lapghan. I don't have any pictures right now, but will hopefully get some up. Now I'm into making sweaters. I haven't completed one yet, but I'm in the process. I would say knitting a sweater is probably the better option since I think it has drape better and use less yarn. But, I can't knit for the life of me so I'm making it a personal challenge to crochet some sweaters.<br />
<br />
My first sweater was going to be a boat neck sweater that I found on the <a href="http://www.yarnspirations.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">Yarnspirations</span></a> website <a href="http://www.yarnspirations.com/patterns/boat-neck-pullover-1.html?id=199241" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">HERE</span></a>. It's rated Easy and I would agree with that. I really didn't like the yarn they chose for it so I switched to Bernat Big Ball Baby Sport yarn in Baby Taupe found <a href="http://www.joann.com/bernat-baby-big-ball-sport-yarn/xprd913668.html#q=barnat%2Bbaby%2Bsport%2Byarn&start=1" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">HERE</span></a>. I was making a size small when I realized too late that it would be too small for me. I prefer my sweaters a little oversized. So I took it all apart (sniffle) and restarted again, but instead I thought a grit stitch would be nice. I wasn't quite halfway done with the first panel when I realized I didn't like the look. So I took it apart AGAIN! Now I'm left with rolled up balls of yarn staring at me. I will try again in a size medium. I of course have to make some modifications by adding ribbing along the top, bottom, and the bottom of the sleeves. I'll show you when I'm done (if I ever start).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv7-xzaOJlw_OP8VwKaKShsMqsHX0Kg9Z1BkwP_t3jfsuKxMHCqmeQEyx_6yha4-SGGdWkXTmUj0pWD5VOAWg5_LrH2ULCLhOus60MlAh0fZ_yW9zfZ6dEBlBdaPCKZ9fH9Y2nmNn_HZH6/s1600/thumb_IMG_2695_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv7-xzaOJlw_OP8VwKaKShsMqsHX0Kg9Z1BkwP_t3jfsuKxMHCqmeQEyx_6yha4-SGGdWkXTmUj0pWD5VOAWg5_LrH2ULCLhOus60MlAh0fZ_yW9zfZ6dEBlBdaPCKZ9fH9Y2nmNn_HZH6/s640/thumb_IMG_2695_1024.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
My current project is based on a sweater designed by <a href="http://Lion Brand Yarn Company" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">Lion Brand Yarn Company</span></a> called Simply Constructed Pullover found <a href="https://www.lionbrand.com/crochet-pattern-simply-constructed-pullover.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">HERE</span></a>. Once again, I just wasn't a fan of the yarn they choose called <a href="http://www.lionbrand.com/modern-baby-yarn.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">Modern Baby Yarn</span></a>. The colors were all primary colors and I really wanted to make a neutral sweater. I chose a basic yarn called Red Heart With Love yarn that I bought <a href="http://www.joann.com/red-heart-with-love-yarn/zprd_11313509a.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">HERE</span></a> in tan. I consider it a bulky level 4 yarn compared with other level 4 yarns. I'm using a J hook for my pattern. The gauge is different so I did have to modify the pattern a bit. I'm still debating the sleeves on the sweater. I'll have to see what I come up with in my final design. I'll do a future post if it turns out!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiitcD_Qq1haRdNsDzzYExIGod6mXCpi-yXQDi8k01qXrlmCp8-E4n3YQTprkaaSOgqwiQFhm36IQqfRKFz31xMNxhOySEwX30u9lBoRdtKRnotKkVoPR7o0nDHdv-o2NGiFcISWzyl8VNZ/s1600/thumb_IMG_2701_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiitcD_Qq1haRdNsDzzYExIGod6mXCpi-yXQDi8k01qXrlmCp8-E4n3YQTprkaaSOgqwiQFhm36IQqfRKFz31xMNxhOySEwX30u9lBoRdtKRnotKkVoPR7o0nDHdv-o2NGiFcISWzyl8VNZ/s640/thumb_IMG_2701_1024.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAbrNsGOV00FNS8Of6mqX8zwf0O3_ifeDmvWYj5jzKFcl7HZfxr5b1Yv_dXURHEjD_gtfgOxfGgvGgdvDbK-Kv8v7BSYok8S_9dpG-PMI71TKBwzIJvQnfP01YBBHH55ahlDYSD2OrJZer/s1600/thumb_IMG_2706_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAbrNsGOV00FNS8Of6mqX8zwf0O3_ifeDmvWYj5jzKFcl7HZfxr5b1Yv_dXURHEjD_gtfgOxfGgvGgdvDbK-Kv8v7BSYok8S_9dpG-PMI71TKBwzIJvQnfP01YBBHH55ahlDYSD2OrJZer/s640/thumb_IMG_2706_1024.jpg" width="614" /></a></div>
<br />
I've completely talked myself out for now. I need to go and finish my sweater!Pattihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17610740911981067187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4373636305256612655.post-30871695688244113022015-07-19T14:43:00.000-07:002017-03-29T09:50:42.944-07:00digging in my soap box for inspirationAfter two failed soaps this week I decided to go back to simple. That's how I started. Just simple soaps with fluffy tops. That meant I needed to go digging in my soap box for the first real mold I ever purchased. It's a simple wood mold to make a one pound batch of soap. I use 15 oz of oils to be precise! I missed my little mold! I missed using wood and I missed my little liners I had in it so that I never had to the line the mold either. In my soap box I also found a bunch of old recipes. I'm assuming I wanted to keep them, which is why they were in my time machine soap box. I decided to make a simple four oil soap with pomace olive oil, organic palm oil, coconut oil, and cocoa butter. It always performs well for me and I can't believe I forgot about it. Well, I can believe I forgot about it since I'm always experimenting. <br />
<br />
I really wanted to make a pink soap so I chose to scent it with Ruby Red Grapefruit fragrance oil from Nature's Garden and a dash of Energy from Brambleberry. What a great grapefruit fragrance. I hope it smells just as good after cure. <br />
<br />
The soap making process went beautifully and it was so nice to have something not seize on me and I wasn't in a rush either. The soap was like pudding. I'll have to use this recipe again.<br />
<br />
Here's what it looked like in the mold. I love the pink and the glitter. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkqsy-GzJZpMZObJxr5I9KXJBzGgvUbZI-PEhJQfGO3O0xACjFlnmHST66u8xaKCQM0X5oYcbodKz8Vel359drzDigsu5if8tB2xS9OKIKkeXdnSnfMkElvtnzOuRpRVEPAhzNFQ17ComK/s1600/IMG_1818.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkqsy-GzJZpMZObJxr5I9KXJBzGgvUbZI-PEhJQfGO3O0xACjFlnmHST66u8xaKCQM0X5oYcbodKz8Vel359drzDigsu5if8tB2xS9OKIKkeXdnSnfMkElvtnzOuRpRVEPAhzNFQ17ComK/s400/IMG_1818.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Here it is the next day after I cut it. It unmolded like a dream. I used 1% sodium lactate and that was perfect. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-DaCmwLQpd3K9Z4K8kVHbw9e5qsMpyqWCYiXFSFM5R_btencjDy3cWR2PQ44f8djgox3NABscGD-XllwWliCJ-5VxrOEt_cCMC4GYdf3j8EXuIFRVL_73MqdyXI4kHeEMhxA6h_xHhwhX/s1600/IMG_1832.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-DaCmwLQpd3K9Z4K8kVHbw9e5qsMpyqWCYiXFSFM5R_btencjDy3cWR2PQ44f8djgox3NABscGD-XllwWliCJ-5VxrOEt_cCMC4GYdf3j8EXuIFRVL_73MqdyXI4kHeEMhxA6h_xHhwhX/s400/IMG_1832.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
It was difficult to capture the pink with my camera. I had to use a "loud" piece of scrapbook paper, but it seemed to do the trick. It smells so yummy and all grapefruity. I lathered up a small piece and it's silky, creamy, and luxurious. Time to wait! I see more of these simple soaps in my future. Happy soaping!Pattihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17610740911981067187noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4373636305256612655.post-30678511304259421732015-04-16T16:13:00.000-07:002017-03-29T09:51:59.002-07:00Spinning Swirl Soap ChallengeThis month's soap challenge by Amy from Great Cakes Soapworks was the spinning swirl. It looked pretty dang easy on Amy's tutorial, but I found it to be a challenge! It took me three attempts to get something that resembled the spinning swirl. <br />
<br />
For my first attempt I totally overheated the soap and ended up with an oily mess. For my second attempt my soap batter got too thick and I couldn't swirl it at all. For my third and final attempt the soap batter was too runny, but at least I was able to spin it. Honestly, I'm just not a fan of slab molds or slab soap designs. My tops get sticky or full of ash and I don't like that. I usually cut the tops off.<br />
<br />
I scented the soap with Brambleberry's blackberry sage since it behaves so well. I colored it with peacock, 3 olive martini, and vanna white from mad oils. Also black pearl from nurture soap supplies. I'm pretty sure I used a lot and my soap pouf thing will be very colored!<br />
<br />
I was thrilled with the top and was hoping the inside would be just as beautiful.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg45sz-v1RfPbewaKwNTes3p9oXo5OEMy2soFHjy0bCnxea5wwjg9HejqMqPrxTuzINUSVUJLcRa4bcMjyx-4r6XqOtB8PEjhimSXS-V6IKDq5mSBtwp6kbFf90hkHEuMnEf7T-_hsLBujL/s1600/P1010874.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg45sz-v1RfPbewaKwNTes3p9oXo5OEMy2soFHjy0bCnxea5wwjg9HejqMqPrxTuzINUSVUJLcRa4bcMjyx-4r6XqOtB8PEjhimSXS-V6IKDq5mSBtwp6kbFf90hkHEuMnEf7T-_hsLBujL/s1600/P1010874.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
But then I think I overheated it and the top went haywire! Nooooo!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_tYcUr2Qm8uz8M_q70-SlTuY6OtVYHnl8jVO8JGwNU3ypqaiXRxMgm0CP68YU82UPjbNYRo3HltHx30B5iOzvYihxzZryyakWYyfNfdZ8lq6OyBKI50sGHjZ-Lw0-bZ093E7Jmg1AHnWy/s1600/P1010877.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_tYcUr2Qm8uz8M_q70-SlTuY6OtVYHnl8jVO8JGwNU3ypqaiXRxMgm0CP68YU82UPjbNYRo3HltHx30B5iOzvYihxzZryyakWYyfNfdZ8lq6OyBKI50sGHjZ-Lw0-bZ093E7Jmg1AHnWy/s1600/P1010877.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
So I crossed my fingers and hoped for the best when I cut it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTWigBYTBjEbzMPeWyaZ1LqgeMtGtf7I_Is8uotG4gAxHx_hvnr8z-4FaHOOB5N86LIdY-eblgEya2TD2VyM0nHmkyaIb7_3rKwfnfPSbUol8r-ooEfzPqkqXszRf7NZaTbZZ7SSR1DpGW/s1600/IMG_1666.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTWigBYTBjEbzMPeWyaZ1LqgeMtGtf7I_Is8uotG4gAxHx_hvnr8z-4FaHOOB5N86LIdY-eblgEya2TD2VyM0nHmkyaIb7_3rKwfnfPSbUol8r-ooEfzPqkqXszRf7NZaTbZZ7SSR1DpGW/s1600/IMG_1666.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdvLtaWb4FTqYlQquQGxE7SYryzAukjI7_-3F-htXuqUOrIrkO1gPyyq75YfzdGyGQNJRzLvUgnFmwEROK7pY6Fnj9WppyWrgOO8b-ddZS_P1QkBASzSf75JMBzaGCe37c9DNuM6Dez7G1/s1600/IMG_1665.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdvLtaWb4FTqYlQquQGxE7SYryzAukjI7_-3F-htXuqUOrIrkO1gPyyq75YfzdGyGQNJRzLvUgnFmwEROK7pY6Fnj9WppyWrgOO8b-ddZS_P1QkBASzSf75JMBzaGCe37c9DNuM6Dez7G1/s1600/IMG_1665.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhX3S6UAyxAxBwfP3S7bJOMj9y1aNjcNAWfYPMQQaOhcMlApO_ibvhZHYmxBH-Ky-KbprWkual1VItUiEvtMQHRBfWnczOY7KPuqrJCA732fKuoNE5z36_Qqh7GNx_BBwlyhvLFF-0_shs/s1600/IMG_1668.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhX3S6UAyxAxBwfP3S7bJOMj9y1aNjcNAWfYPMQQaOhcMlApO_ibvhZHYmxBH-Ky-KbprWkual1VItUiEvtMQHRBfWnczOY7KPuqrJCA732fKuoNE5z36_Qqh7GNx_BBwlyhvLFF-0_shs/s1600/IMG_1668.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilYHuBCAG7oXgRkg7Rt0OQ6Qy-g2mxQdN15W3jcboSpNhi8CBd0HsGObwxpZiScX2GYHRKIH9A82N8D1Ss_STP6zByTkTv2-MyavbjL0zIPwmDk8RVuKNpHun7KN18gUTPZHBhVK8Iqg6b/s1600/IMG_1664.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilYHuBCAG7oXgRkg7Rt0OQ6Qy-g2mxQdN15W3jcboSpNhi8CBd0HsGObwxpZiScX2GYHRKIH9A82N8D1Ss_STP6zByTkTv2-MyavbjL0zIPwmDk8RVuKNpHun7KN18gUTPZHBhVK8Iqg6b/s1600/IMG_1664.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQLW1TSWI-4zJBWL307UAtcHPcFPMYpf7f3Sbye84kNmVOlH7-fzeXbpDdxW3-KsI0KBNx5fsc9FeU5T8fdd-QKadsCUxKa6qLCS6Sk4Yp3UkcH38sewVoUFxavDxeQ1uLcGalOeBsL5dg/s1600/IMG_1669.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQLW1TSWI-4zJBWL307UAtcHPcFPMYpf7f3Sbye84kNmVOlH7-fzeXbpDdxW3-KsI0KBNx5fsc9FeU5T8fdd-QKadsCUxKa6qLCS6Sk4Yp3UkcH38sewVoUFxavDxeQ1uLcGalOeBsL5dg/s1600/IMG_1669.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Well, not too shabby. This was definitely a fun challenge and it actually gave me some ideas for future soap designs. I absolutely love the color combination and love that there are really unique designs in the soap. I can't wait to see what everyone else came up with! <br />
<br />
Happy soaping!Pattihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17610740911981067187noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4373636305256612655.post-5117385517384215892014-12-10T19:09:00.001-08:002017-04-06T16:51:40.908-07:00Phew! Barely made it in time spoon swirl!I've been joining Amy's soap challenge almost monthly, but haven't actually made the soaps for the challenges. So today I woke up and said "Dang it, I'm making soap!" <br />
<br />
Sneak peak! I just have to put a picture at the top for you.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrMcIFLgQIU6MJluqAOK4LP86uO6HWFUu1OwO5misNswFVLHm-X5lu3Ue6jmJLJ47vAGDzCvRmJ_OXeNus126VRH3rwibLrX54s4XAz-3PFMjjjrrvjL1H_2SfX1UYbPbnY7tCDAMWDyZS/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrMcIFLgQIU6MJluqAOK4LP86uO6HWFUu1OwO5misNswFVLHm-X5lu3Ue6jmJLJ47vAGDzCvRmJ_OXeNus126VRH3rwibLrX54s4XAz-3PFMjjjrrvjL1H_2SfX1UYbPbnY7tCDAMWDyZS/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="302" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Okay, what was I saying? Oh yeah...</div>
<br />
I love the spoon swirl. I've done it before and it's just a fun way to swirl. I decided to use a new palm free recipe because I was too lazy to melt my palm oil to measure it. ha! I decided to use olive oil, coconut oil, mango butter, and castor oil. I also used Brambleberry's blackberry and sage fragrance. It's an interesting fruity, but not too fruity, scent. The sage seems to ground it and make it a little herbal too. <br />
<br />
Here is my setup.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaZksO_T-1IvPIHYClxfjKCQsmEZQ41QjiejWJQc3RujcIHbK5sQEjwoVNqiQIfnhgzf1qZ2nPmXLZIntBMqFYoouuAk8ws6tBvCsWGy5pP-aZDNMiwcQacR8xBY9XIJ6kEko5xhiMxLKs/s1600/IMG_1370.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaZksO_T-1IvPIHYClxfjKCQsmEZQ41QjiejWJQc3RujcIHbK5sQEjwoVNqiQIfnhgzf1qZ2nPmXLZIntBMqFYoouuAk8ws6tBvCsWGy5pP-aZDNMiwcQacR8xBY9XIJ6kEko5xhiMxLKs/s1600/IMG_1370.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So much stuff for one tiny loaf! I decided to go with my favorite color combination of white, black, and hot pink. To be honest, I don't have many colors and I know these work together. Blackberry sage is a great fragrance to use for this because it's clear and while my soap thickened a bit, it never got any thicker than pudding. It was the perfect thickness for a spoon swirl. Not too thin and not too thick. I also used 1% sodium lactate and a 35% lye concentration since I like to cut the soap the same day I make it. I had music on in the background and I thoroughly enjoyed this challenge.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here's what it looks like in the mold before I put it in the oven to gel.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL2F2_-ITnjtwowkI-wMVY1OwSNffibBLMDHN8K1XXf9KSTDOLM02OeNdthad3EI_5sd74aNx_L92MJ0Swi-wtSZEhkD25ICHkpEYS3gmCReQxSDFN3XH-JuK2iDYBPDIjOD5mVimZac6M/s1600/IMG_1373.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL2F2_-ITnjtwowkI-wMVY1OwSNffibBLMDHN8K1XXf9KSTDOLM02OeNdthad3EI_5sd74aNx_L92MJ0Swi-wtSZEhkD25ICHkpEYS3gmCReQxSDFN3XH-JuK2iDYBPDIjOD5mVimZac6M/s1600/IMG_1373.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I put my usual glitter, pearls, and candies on top. I can't wait to see what this looks like when I cut it (I'm writing this post before I cut it). </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I was able to cut it less than 12 hours later and I was so excited to see all of the swirls! When I did the spoon swirl, I swirled it one way and then the other to get kind of a mixed type of swirl. Every soap is different too. </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLwQa6OmOplvGQy4dt4b1vgt-Sd-6eOva4iIMGrycWWBu8UDzVamldbIsBZxambBTQ3cnLZH_OkWoJ6E4YPCvijqvAJRr4rvyQUIAruH35Bx9Srkp1g5L44y2zmGLWM1kYeuDRCrDbBCDu/s1600/FullSizeRender-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLwQa6OmOplvGQy4dt4b1vgt-Sd-6eOva4iIMGrycWWBu8UDzVamldbIsBZxambBTQ3cnLZH_OkWoJ6E4YPCvijqvAJRr4rvyQUIAruH35Bx9Srkp1g5L44y2zmGLWM1kYeuDRCrDbBCDu/s1600/FullSizeRender-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I hope you give this type of soaping method a try because it's so much fun. Happy soaping!</div>
<br />Pattihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17610740911981067187noreply@blogger.com36tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4373636305256612655.post-73162441865989426532014-06-01T08:15:00.001-07:002017-03-29T09:53:22.040-07:00from there to hereI just realized that I haven't written a blog post since January! Wow! Where have I been? I've been right here hardly making soap or anything. I think I got obsessed with making bath fizzes, lotions and then that went away. It didn't help that we had to put our dog to sleep in November. I'm a huge dog lover and it was sad to say goodbye to Milla. My husband and I have been married 18 years and we pretty much had two dogs and then one dog the whole time. Throw in winter and minimal sunshine and it just didn't make for a fun half of the year. Spring is here, which means sun and warmer weather. Yay!<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This break from soap making gave me some time to actually use my soaps almost as if I didn't make them. It was kind of fun to just grab a bar of soap without thinking about what was in it and use it. I realized I prefer softer and creamier soaps. I knew that and yet I didn't know that. I was using a harder bar of soap and then I grabbed one of my palm free soaps and loved it. I dug out the recipe and saw all of the lovely oils in it (avocado, shea butter, and cocoa butter) and thought that I really need to make this one again. Sure, I use it up a little faster than a harder bar of soap, but the creaminess and lather really make up for it. It's luxurious. I feel motivated again to make more. I think I might go back to simple soaps. In fact, I did make a simple soap scented with Chamomile from Natures Garden and I really enjoyed making it. This was the harder soap I made and while I enjoy it, I would make it using my palm free recipe next. I just wish I had more of this fragrance oil!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkTwvk1HGPn-nzYMZ9bne9I_1GdcWmbATCz3fdwWqeO_mXwmae2_DwxqERGNyp1uNEL7lEj3PGXDYKYgvMK-A5MyZfoFS4Mw2cgylhiu3NGbTtO0hbqlMIQDTerquPGz79XqBB-bXR2gvJ/s1600/IMG_0924.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkTwvk1HGPn-nzYMZ9bne9I_1GdcWmbATCz3fdwWqeO_mXwmae2_DwxqERGNyp1uNEL7lEj3PGXDYKYgvMK-A5MyZfoFS4Mw2cgylhiu3NGbTtO0hbqlMIQDTerquPGz79XqBB-bXR2gvJ/s1600/IMG_0924.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br />
So what else have I been doing with my life? I had the urge to start sewing again. This time I decided to make skirts out of old shirts. It's amazing the tutorials you can find on the internet! This one was made out of my husband's old polo shirt and a t-shirt of mine that I didn't like anymore.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8On-zitnssUSoL4b1aJvb13v_DCY9j0uHea2E23DB3TRZ5do0F1se4Ox4TIV9ooVXqAi_EkVkkWKBGwvGJYssByXTZJvpKj-htZqZvcn_WD1d-smXdlIvWVeeOwLqMIaZoDO1e-XMotNX/s1600/IMG_0240.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8On-zitnssUSoL4b1aJvb13v_DCY9j0uHea2E23DB3TRZ5do0F1se4Ox4TIV9ooVXqAi_EkVkkWKBGwvGJYssByXTZJvpKj-htZqZvcn_WD1d-smXdlIvWVeeOwLqMIaZoDO1e-XMotNX/s1600/IMG_0240.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The second one was from a simple black t-shirt and an old white t-shirt of mine. I love making new out of old! Plus, I didn't realize how comfortable skirts were for summer! I made this one with more of an A-line shape to it with less gathering at the waste. My next goal is making more of a yoga style skirt. I may just have to buy a pattern for that however. I just hope I don't need to use a serger, because I don't have one!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBe1sddXkji2IsAY8Ku3HI8H1scbkSkShMnbYdA76gwTFtudj0bUN1gIeRWR96v2oc81dBb1LqNJy5LUP3GEoDzvteXRCVQgjesls0Kb6YuRJK7ezANCQEfTRyDkOE_q0NdcRJjim1CoAb/s1600/IMG_1098.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBe1sddXkji2IsAY8Ku3HI8H1scbkSkShMnbYdA76gwTFtudj0bUN1gIeRWR96v2oc81dBb1LqNJy5LUP3GEoDzvteXRCVQgjesls0Kb6YuRJK7ezANCQEfTRyDkOE_q0NdcRJjim1CoAb/s1600/IMG_1098.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
What else have I been up to? Oh yes, hubs and I have started to go bikepacking. That's where you throw all of your camping gear on your bike and go exploring! I love it. It's a two wheel adventure! We can go places that would take too long to backpack to. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjDWMVMWjlzPsYSc8PArNg0E7eFx8q6QZJUYTLq33aD0-zieb9_ytv19_hBrHpvBeSatEegMRInzMui6xO_Pdg7s13dLE_TZvX1jngnfHHw6yc6Pd3qMjXe258irwlhzoSVcBN0sEnJQOB/s1600/IMG_0989.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjDWMVMWjlzPsYSc8PArNg0E7eFx8q6QZJUYTLq33aD0-zieb9_ytv19_hBrHpvBeSatEegMRInzMui6xO_Pdg7s13dLE_TZvX1jngnfHHw6yc6Pd3qMjXe258irwlhzoSVcBN0sEnJQOB/s1600/IMG_0989.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Sometimes we call them gravel grinders because we're suffering on the gravel. But then a beautiful view comes into focus and it makes it worth it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaFOvpvQ2a80KeV3jS6Kxz_SDI-Ep-uoH84elFfGiAbnHh_B1-dn-mL-UYr3V95yf7wr7kPtFtmXHXlqUIG9hAoj6xRsayDC7cQ0eOn9M2RIGyE7Q5iwKuZnLjz8uZxjhM1wrxjaSzlmhk/s1600/IMG_1059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaFOvpvQ2a80KeV3jS6Kxz_SDI-Ep-uoH84elFfGiAbnHh_B1-dn-mL-UYr3V95yf7wr7kPtFtmXHXlqUIG9hAoj6xRsayDC7cQ0eOn9M2RIGyE7Q5iwKuZnLjz8uZxjhM1wrxjaSzlmhk/s1600/IMG_1059.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
That's about it for now. Happy soap making and happy adventures!</div>
<br /></div>
Pattihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17610740911981067187noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4373636305256612655.post-36709424097904276972014-01-16T08:53:00.000-08:002017-04-08T15:04:05.550-07:00Soap Challenge Club - Taiwan SwirlI really couldn't pass up learning yet another swirl from Amy Warden of <a href="http://www.greatcakessoapworks.com/" target="_blank">Great Cakes Soapworks</a>. Each month she hosts a soap challenge that soapers can join to learn new techniques. I love Amy's teaching style and I always learn so much for her. This month's challenge was the <a href="http://www.greatcakessoapworks.com/store.php/products/soap-challenge-club-membership-one-month" target="_blank">Taiwan Swirl</a>. I have never heard of it so I thought I would give it a try. <br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Because this includes delicate swirls I made sure to use a slow moving recipe, a well behaved fragrance oil (if it can reverse or slow down trace, that's the one you want), almost full water, and 85°F soaping temps. Slow moving for me means no castor oil and no sodium lactate. I use a lot of olive oil, organic palm oil, coconut oil, canola oil, and mango butter. I also hardly use my stickblender. I made a video so you can see what I did. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'm still in dire need of new soaping colors so I had to use my old standbys of white, yellow and purple. I chose to mix my yellow and purple micas in a little olive oil so that I wouldn't have to use my stickblender. It worked really well. I added a little titanium dioxide to the base to whiten it. The fragrance oil I used was <a href="http://rusticescentuals.com/Lemon-Verbena.html" target="_blank">Lemon Verbena</a> from Aroma Haven and that tends to yellow a bit. It behaved very well and I really didn't need to use much. It would make the perfect fragrance for a kitchen soap and it will be a great pick me up in the morning. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I let it gel and then the next day I took it out of the mold and worked my magic with my soap cutter. Lots of trimming to reveal the beautiful swirls.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbjpcIeQGqsKIw0NXtPLEsSbN43SYb8g7D7fh07TNHjOrx186xThRN1LmuLLHHEg84NDJ7Swsb07GDvSRx-oIn-sJVFjEApn3aovHXfskh27ubsE-PX_2S_xiApOZRgilRTt_xATz23SKP/s640/blogger-image-704787305.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbjpcIeQGqsKIw0NXtPLEsSbN43SYb8g7D7fh07TNHjOrx186xThRN1LmuLLHHEg84NDJ7Swsb07GDvSRx-oIn-sJVFjEApn3aovHXfskh27ubsE-PX_2S_xiApOZRgilRTt_xATz23SKP/s400/blogger-image-704787305.jpg" width="313" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinNqdOIiKUV1KfpDLTyn2wOusFZOvtHFebYC7scB5NJvq6eLM12-yy37ArNJH-GQxvPliWG_lw2hU99lhgF9QPLZb_9zHHTuUK43xU6SKjwRSAogFsPp5jgcz5y4bqtHEfmdEFUJkgcZQW/s640/blogger-image-179216269.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinNqdOIiKUV1KfpDLTyn2wOusFZOvtHFebYC7scB5NJvq6eLM12-yy37ArNJH-GQxvPliWG_lw2hU99lhgF9QPLZb_9zHHTuUK43xU6SKjwRSAogFsPp5jgcz5y4bqtHEfmdEFUJkgcZQW/s400/blogger-image-179216269.jpg" width="359" /></a></div>
<br />
I'm very happy with how this turned out and can't wait to do another soap like this. I think I want to try it in my slab mold from <a href="http://www.brambleberry.com/9-Bar-Unfinished-Birchwood-Mold-P5169.aspx" target="_blank">Brambleberry</a> next. Some new colors would be great too!<br />
<br />
Last, but not least...my soaping videos! Enjoy!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/n-yryhLYwNo?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/5NvSKIN2DuA?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br />
<br /></div>
Pattihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17610740911981067187noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4373636305256612655.post-11427182734324837522013-12-01T09:35:00.000-08:002013-12-01T09:35:01.583-08:00goodbye millaI'm not really sure how to start this post except to say that my husband and I had to say goodbye to Milla on November 14, 2013. It was just one day after she turned 16. Her poor heart just couldn't take it anymore and we didn't want her to suffer any longer. Our final gift to her was a peaceful goodbye. Sweet dreams Milla, we will miss you. <div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUZOJbP6C3_oiJMWulLLCIG5GQhhMdUtNM6CI6QxGB2Hv2e9JJwy7CMrpWhTnFDEWbNmrh2T4TU1eHD1YyjDlFxSuFgkPjsNh3PolE4sNSLDQDKirFUX4ta-xcGrWFaFR5jkRNv-Dxixu9/s1600/Bart0009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUZOJbP6C3_oiJMWulLLCIG5GQhhMdUtNM6CI6QxGB2Hv2e9JJwy7CMrpWhTnFDEWbNmrh2T4TU1eHD1YyjDlFxSuFgkPjsNh3PolE4sNSLDQDKirFUX4ta-xcGrWFaFR5jkRNv-Dxixu9/s400/Bart0009.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Playing with Bart. I'm sure she's playing with him right now.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJBUnHb7Jv0Kydr_Y_MRKsX9OhJkztiGD_6efmtkTcOWDVm9pZ39zcCydexV0hKUsfFuwZOnsDrfzkiHSpao2Fa3huAklycb-hJzPvwci4pQn1klR2kAQE1Cg1UgxXbMQ34MBmyCTu6c4u/s1600/Bart0062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJBUnHb7Jv0Kydr_Y_MRKsX9OhJkztiGD_6efmtkTcOWDVm9pZ39zcCydexV0hKUsfFuwZOnsDrfzkiHSpao2Fa3huAklycb-hJzPvwci4pQn1klR2kAQE1Cg1UgxXbMQ34MBmyCTu6c4u/s400/Bart0062.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">All groomed and pretty. Although a puppy cut was much better suited for her!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJvUt2S70G3tudaqnqQewdyxn2LLVwIjYjDSY5bonJB4VHbLMXErHvg0yS7KR7ev_2JZBeT1AG1Y41OEcLJDbSCCdtf-oqqfhr6Essbr_AwYPbCE1oatuMLt8JH-GvSLnc30A0kWXksSBa/s1600/P1000771(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJvUt2S70G3tudaqnqQewdyxn2LLVwIjYjDSY5bonJB4VHbLMXErHvg0yS7KR7ev_2JZBeT1AG1Y41OEcLJDbSCCdtf-oqqfhr6Essbr_AwYPbCE1oatuMLt8JH-GvSLnc30A0kWXksSBa/s400/P1000771(1).JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">She loved hanging outside with daddy. She was also very shy in front of the camera!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Pattihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17610740911981067187noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4373636305256612655.post-26143303617878600172013-09-25T12:24:00.001-07:002017-03-29T10:00:07.280-07:00practicing some soaping techniquesI felt the urge to be creative. I've been watching lots of videos on soaping techniques and felt like trying some of them. I thought I would try the tiger stripe again, the spoon swirl and the tilted tiger stripe.<br />
<br />
I've done the tiger stripe before and loved it so I attempted it again using a black raspberry vanilla fragrance. The batter was a bit too fluid to do my fluffy tops so I just swirled it a little.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpgfWuetavMzDYaveyTT7DJ5vW_3tLuCuSOL_LlnGval8jl0U4DTXEHWxfMwRDyCMtHTd3OVPybGoIh7GzsDn3ygWsVuf1jpBxsuTM9L2aLbMAqom_71cMdVF4C2DDqQgyu7fIaMGkkJhP/s1600/BRV+tiger+stripe+top.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpgfWuetavMzDYaveyTT7DJ5vW_3tLuCuSOL_LlnGval8jl0U4DTXEHWxfMwRDyCMtHTd3OVPybGoIh7GzsDn3ygWsVuf1jpBxsuTM9L2aLbMAqom_71cMdVF4C2DDqQgyu7fIaMGkkJhP/s400/BRV+tiger+stripe+top.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcVz0y4iiPJVl9iV7NfArDHcZvI45GGfE_T5QePVUX4Xl749VjzCg2o6VhQwtzJ-_RSnZAOj-lpNvM4e1dNGvUnDDl327TCZsTQs7QiRnTLSwt3qqAijPtkTo1abr2ezSaM8Eo_-yDcNDX/s1600/BRV+tiger+stripe+medium.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcVz0y4iiPJVl9iV7NfArDHcZvI45GGfE_T5QePVUX4Xl749VjzCg2o6VhQwtzJ-_RSnZAOj-lpNvM4e1dNGvUnDDl327TCZsTQs7QiRnTLSwt3qqAijPtkTo1abr2ezSaM8Eo_-yDcNDX/s400/BRV+tiger+stripe+medium.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I used my favorite color combination and I'm so happy with how these turned out. There may be some vanilla in the fragrance oil because my beautiful white is slowly turning to a cream color. It may eventually go darker. The tops ended up being very sticky so I had to trim them off. I kind of like rectangular bars. Sometimes it's nice not to go fluffy.<br />
<br />
My next one was going to be a spoon swirl. I had some champagne sugar fragrance oil to try and a new palm free recipe too. I can't wait for it to cure. I thought I would go pastel with this one and bling it up with some glitter. What a fun technique! The soap recipe behaved perfectly too. I used olive, coconut, avocado, castor, and cocoa butter. Gotta have the castor oil in this one! I also used 2% sodium lactate to harden it up and it was a breeze to unmold 12 hours later.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfbVrCD8WyplCfaAyjCMtw2MPJIJMJZ0uXXG-fICbVuMEbfJjm89LFuWrNUgVO97IW4HwYXYka3Nc6eJ_aqbDTFNARYKFNFHAfZ_iF3A3kl-FYiUaPrCmS8vfObiIQtuD_KjUOKGK7MtlI/s1600/champagne+sugar+spoon+swirl+top+with+black+border.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfbVrCD8WyplCfaAyjCMtw2MPJIJMJZ0uXXG-fICbVuMEbfJjm89LFuWrNUgVO97IW4HwYXYka3Nc6eJ_aqbDTFNARYKFNFHAfZ_iF3A3kl-FYiUaPrCmS8vfObiIQtuD_KjUOKGK7MtlI/s400/champagne+sugar+spoon+swirl+top+with+black+border.JPG" width="372" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEn1HQWiHPKVMik0RM_TEIn6DlbjTR6mkR6wuaEJfQTWeo8jAzLCzGVXpqO1lsofeLPPuXxbqCztQ8bQ8174t4qvYGHDuXs17CjBJfbTBYDoCh2_foBpfUTAVqmaVDZfKHwkjahdPOjldS/s1600/Champagne+Sugar+spoon+swirl+with+black+border.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEn1HQWiHPKVMik0RM_TEIn6DlbjTR6mkR6wuaEJfQTWeo8jAzLCzGVXpqO1lsofeLPPuXxbqCztQ8bQ8174t4qvYGHDuXs17CjBJfbTBYDoCh2_foBpfUTAVqmaVDZfKHwkjahdPOjldS/s400/Champagne+Sugar+spoon+swirl+with+black+border.JPG" width="336" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
These smell sweet and the pastel color seems to compliment the fragrance. Just a quick test with a scrap and the lather is silky and creamy.<br />
<br />
Last, but not least I attempted a tilted tiger stripe. I soaped a little warm and my batter got thick so I had to change up the game plan a little and had to throw in a spoon swirl at the top. I think it turned out great! I picked my color scheme first and then chose aloe vera and cucumber as my fragrance. This would be perfect as a peppermint scented soap too. I could really go for some mint chocolate chip ice cream right now!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmcfFp7w3v8dGORZf5r6tQX-ytmQa06Dk1sOBiJcxlN5QupKi-lM2ZsbI1u5NwWqK4SS_GVpnqWT1P49Ozaj_Z-xrDndlkkrxKgoKx_DIP4ogtHLLOb4cIsgr-EZc5Kd1Zfb937Xr9Lsii/s1600/aloe+vera+and+cucumber+tilted+tiger+stripe+and+spoon+swril+with+border.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmcfFp7w3v8dGORZf5r6tQX-ytmQa06Dk1sOBiJcxlN5QupKi-lM2ZsbI1u5NwWqK4SS_GVpnqWT1P49Ozaj_Z-xrDndlkkrxKgoKx_DIP4ogtHLLOb4cIsgr-EZc5Kd1Zfb937Xr9Lsii/s400/aloe+vera+and+cucumber+tilted+tiger+stripe+and+spoon+swril+with+border.JPG" width="357" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
I had so much fun making these and have more ideas in my head! No videos for these as I really had no time to talk and made a good mess each time.<br />
<br />
Happy Soaping!Pattihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17610740911981067187noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4373636305256612655.post-4970301434468524452013-09-09T10:01:00.004-07:002017-03-29T10:00:29.932-07:00body scrubsI'm not sure why, but I am totally obsessed with making emulsified body scrubs. I've been making them for a few years now. I love trying different emulsifiers and different ingredients to see the end results and how my skin feels. There's nothing like the feel of soft and smooth skin after a shower. They are especially great in the winter. <br />
<br />
I've made salt and sugar scrubs and for some reason I just love salt scrubs. I've played with table salt, pickling and canning salt, and various types of sea salts. Fine grained sea salt is my favorite since I find it to be gentle on my skin and seems to last the longest in the shower. The only drawback is if I have a scrape on my leg from mountain biking and the salt hits it...ouch... a little bit of a burn. Oh and you can't use salt on freshly shaved skin either. Yikes! But, I think the results are worth the extra care. What do you prefer? Salt or sugar scrubs?<br />
<br />
Here's a salt scrub I made last week with BTMS<span style="font-family: inherit;"> (Behentrimonium Methosulfate (and) Cetearyl Alcohol)</span>, shea butter, and high-oleic safflower oil among other things. I scented it with a blend of Sweet Peas & Rhubarb from Soapalooza and Sea Kelp from Rustic Escentuals. This was right after making it and packaging it. It was on the soft side at first, but stiffened up a bit more over 24 hours. It's important to not judge the consistency of scrub on the first day as it can still harden over time depending on the ingredients used.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_tJRct5BggUs2AGxU1b5ykXKJFC9mCtomWPIh_50OziF0nBwJIoDiVRdYlIE-tH5MpkClnNMeJFniUBNuVPCJZ49za-G0oZfpJdp-a1cZU4EDfUrVTlCg6sKR1zSICy9VA0fVKbQFVseC/s1600/Sweet+Pea+Salt+Scrub.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_tJRct5BggUs2AGxU1b5ykXKJFC9mCtomWPIh_50OziF0nBwJIoDiVRdYlIE-tH5MpkClnNMeJFniUBNuVPCJZ49za-G0oZfpJdp-a1cZU4EDfUrVTlCg6sKR1zSICy9VA0fVKbQFVseC/s400/Sweet+Pea+Salt+Scrub.JPG" width="386" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here's the same scrub after being used several times. I'm careful to not get water in the scrub so that I can keep the consistency the same. I use a preservative also. You can see that it has lost some of the opacity and is a bit more translucent. What I love is that it is still scoopable and didn't get too hard or waxy. This feels great in the shower too. I also love to leave these uncolored. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikcwIEVD3y0_wX1bxJSUCn56wM5V4ZBgfpFvfF_vkz-qHnzVlrOxAD7DUzCL5EFkNH66wQ9H5soZmWM93s9giJX6kXoQXe48DPf3O7XBOL2JZQhhoj1kZA2s1WOD4R-72A3P8Ja_YCjnkY/s640/blogger-image-588705900.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikcwIEVD3y0_wX1bxJSUCn56wM5V4ZBgfpFvfF_vkz-qHnzVlrOxAD7DUzCL5EFkNH66wQ9H5soZmWM93s9giJX6kXoQXe48DPf3O7XBOL2JZQhhoj1kZA2s1WOD4R-72A3P8Ja_YCjnkY/s400/blogger-image-588705900.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I just realized that I'm almost out! Time to make more! What are some of your favorite fragrances for scrubs? Do you like citrus, margarita, floral, herbal, vanilla types? <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<br />Pattihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17610740911981067187noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4373636305256612655.post-70632748725497786832013-09-04T17:59:00.000-07:002013-09-04T22:29:58.942-07:00circlesSummertime is drawing to an end and I'm not ready. I feel like there's more I need to do (even though I've done plenty). My dog Milla is reaching the end of her life. It has made me sad this summer. She'll be 16 in November and I have a feeling she won't be with us next summer. It's been a roller coaster of emotions watching her age this past year. We didn't take any vacations this summer because we couldn't put her in a kennel and we knew we would worry ourselves silly even with a pet sitter. Traveling with her was not an option either. Some days I feel like we are getting close to saying goodbye and then other days her zest for life emerges when she enjoys her stinky chew bones outside or her walk down the path behind our house to sniff her favorite bushes. I hope we will know when it's time if we have to make that decision. I've never had a dog for 16 years. Our other dog, Bart, had cancer at 12 years and we knew the decision then. She's a tough dog that's for sure. We didn't name her "Milla Runs Wild" for nothing!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT3k_sk37DD-LCEniC_5IUPpcFlojS0LgknTqGgtpan6n-833I1erbXEgogeooT3BNAeg_Bj9PqVGFslujerWXEM4YMnim088aQb5rBgSyEOcP645eLuxTGozUSVLaGb_pLNRSCs8HM4TH/s1600/milla+sleeping.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT3k_sk37DD-LCEniC_5IUPpcFlojS0LgknTqGgtpan6n-833I1erbXEgogeooT3BNAeg_Bj9PqVGFslujerWXEM4YMnim088aQb5rBgSyEOcP645eLuxTGozUSVLaGb_pLNRSCs8HM4TH/s320/milla+sleeping.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I haven't made a lot of soap lately. I took a little break after the mantra swirl soap challenge. I wanted to let my soaps cure and try my different recipes. They are all very similar with small changes. I'm always fascinated with experiments and results. Cocoa butter vs. shea butter or castor oil vs. no castor oil. I even tried a no butter recipe recently as sometimes I just can't bear the thought of using a butter in soap! Maybe because I looked at how much I've spent on soaping supplies! Does butter matter?<br />
<br />
Besides soap experiments, I've been doing more mad scientist experiments again. I always feel the need to test one more ingredient. It's exhausting, but I need to know how different emulsifiers work or how different oils or butters feel in my products. I just need to be sure! I have a lot of recipes that say "Final" on them and that feels good to me. I have to realize that nothing will ever be "perfect" and that's OK because it's close enough. I think one of my faults is that I'll love a recipe and then think "hey, why don't I replace this oil with that oil since I'm already using that oil in something else?" Seems like an efficient plan, but then it changes the product. My husband finally said to just leave it alone and make it the way I like it. So....lesson learned. I need to quit going in circles.<br />
<br />Pattihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17610740911981067187noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4373636305256612655.post-16933651372062247022013-07-11T12:05:00.000-07:002017-03-29T10:01:49.206-07:00Mantra Swirl - Soap Challenge ClubI was so happy this month when Amy (Great Cakes Soapworks) posted her new soap challenge - the <a href="http://www.greatcakessoapworks.com/handmade-soap-blog/index.php/who-wants-to-learn-the-mantra-swirl/" target="_blank">Mantra Swirl Soap Challenge</a>! I always wanted to learn the traditional mantra swirl and this was the perfect opportunity to learn it. The other option was the modified mantra swirl, but I chose the traditional mantra swirl. Plus, it's always fun when there are others trying it at the same time as me! <br />
<br />
I decided to use my slow moving recipe, which has lots of olive oil and no castor oil or sodium lactate. If I soap at around 88 - 90F then I can pretty much not worry about the soap recipe accelerating. I chose to use Hippie Chick from Rustic Escentuals for my fragrance. That behaved very well for me, thank goodness. I chose yellow mica, white (titanium dioxide) and purple mica for my colors (inspired by Barbara's photo). <br />
<br />
I didn't even have a log mold for this so I had to find a small cardboard box and line it with freezer paper. Did I expect it to turn out? I hoped it would, but thought it would take a few attempts. Turns out I loved my first attempt. My cardboard box mold didn't survive however. I had to tear the box apart to get my soap out and it wasn't even close to straight!! I had to trim some soap off, but was thrilled because it revealed the beautiful swirls.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLf9AhXzCJM7Rnfzq7We7Sc0to-Ehh4lNN_LE7qHfLdS-EHSkI6wslnwp2N0JMMWNybdYZkb8jrDT2gwXqkm6YYZABQWRcpu6MPQh9fdXlQZFG7r5N4OLOELPcyhin9qY69JwtuOwXurj-/s1600/Mantra+Swirl+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="385" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLf9AhXzCJM7Rnfzq7We7Sc0to-Ehh4lNN_LE7qHfLdS-EHSkI6wslnwp2N0JMMWNybdYZkb8jrDT2gwXqkm6YYZABQWRcpu6MPQh9fdXlQZFG7r5N4OLOELPcyhin9qY69JwtuOwXurj-/s400/Mantra+Swirl+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX6hBAA-4bIpMFjUBrch_ott4hIiw0LkgvHAFle6K-p4Ad9EDb6PqLyuThHdD43qJ3sWuYintM5ziuKv4n4SQphyphenhyphenLxbcNYS5DK1c-jO9QfGuWV1jhHeu8rK46BXwoaTaIa9DZOvFPeNdHO/s1600/Mantra+Swirl+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX6hBAA-4bIpMFjUBrch_ott4hIiw0LkgvHAFle6K-p4Ad9EDb6PqLyuThHdD43qJ3sWuYintM5ziuKv4n4SQphyphenhyphenLxbcNYS5DK1c-jO9QfGuWV1jhHeu8rK46BXwoaTaIa9DZOvFPeNdHO/s400/Mantra+Swirl+2.jpg" width="392" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCsyzt8cpLH0UC1Nkmii-LWXuiofbmvZkvcCuSn5lISVdEH0wzPooRmhZAXenRpzh_62wUxKZZyU222XBoPqrI93Uvufh3vkGfIgyYBnriiWvONd8K-egqE8MYOjSueTBVtuQ803j_Ro8Q/s1600/Mantra+Swirl+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCsyzt8cpLH0UC1Nkmii-LWXuiofbmvZkvcCuSn5lISVdEH0wzPooRmhZAXenRpzh_62wUxKZZyU222XBoPqrI93Uvufh3vkGfIgyYBnriiWvONd8K-egqE8MYOjSueTBVtuQ803j_Ro8Q/s400/Mantra+Swirl+4.jpg" width="366" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg0JfItP25-TZXMZ1oeDJRaiGAGBiPeWxf85g3Pkacyaeg5ZNNBRqFyk1oEglefEb79qH3ADxR8DxNn4YpBAnN4rGEHwlM6pgC7hBqV_iMMBzZKcKoN_2DXOe55GthcavgQ3p1-U43Y6IK/s1600/Mantra+Swirl+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg0JfItP25-TZXMZ1oeDJRaiGAGBiPeWxf85g3Pkacyaeg5ZNNBRqFyk1oEglefEb79qH3ADxR8DxNn4YpBAnN4rGEHwlM6pgC7hBqV_iMMBzZKcKoN_2DXOe55GthcavgQ3p1-U43Y6IK/s400/Mantra+Swirl+6.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I had a lot of fun with this soap challenge and I'm very pleased with how these turned out. Each bar is different and I just love looking at the swirls. I will definitely try this again, but need to make myself a wide log mold first! It also doesn't hurt to use more oils that you think in case you need to do some trimming. You can save the soap for making soap balls for embeds in other soaps! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Thanks Amy for the wonderful instructions! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Pattihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17610740911981067187noreply@blogger.com47tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4373636305256612655.post-65044964900941220952013-04-27T11:53:00.003-07:002013-04-27T12:00:15.111-07:00Amy's Soap Challenge 2013 - Final Week - Leopard SpotsI wasn't going to post my soap yet as I still have another attempt to do, but I didn't think it would be fair NOT to show my soap failure! I still like it, but it is not at all what I planned to do.<br />
<br />
Before I explain, I just want to say a big thank you to Amy from <a href="http://www.greatcakessoapworks.com/" target="_blank">Great Cakes Soapworks</a> for putting on this soap challenge! I'm sure it was a lot of work for her (since it was for me) and I was able to learn so much from this experience. I think it's important to grow creatively otherwise I'll end up stagnating! This was the perfect challenge for me. <br />
<br />
The final week was leopard spots. Amy discovered this technique from Cee (<a href="http://oilandbutter.blogspot.com/2013/01/leopard-spotted-soap.html" target="_blank">Oil & Butter</a>), who found this technique on a cake design video. How creative! So of course we all have to try this! Check out the latest link-ups for the final challenge week <a href="http://www.greatcakessoapworks.com/handmade-soap-blog/index.php/soap-challenge-2013-leopard-spotted-soap-link-up/comment-page-1/#comment-33553" target="_blank">here</a>. Oh and it was a challenge! I saw many a people had to do this at least twice and sometimes three times! Us soapmakers are a group of perfectionists for sure!<br />
<br />
Everything seemed to go wrong for me. I used a different soap recipe, which was a mistake. It had too much palmitic and stearic acid in it along with castor oil. Great for speeding up trace. Then I had my lye water too hot so that was the end there! My soap was SO thick, but at least it didn't sieze. I colored my soap wrong. I started coloring it pink before I separated off my colors for black and white!!!! Ugh, so now I had to go with with light pink instead of white. I was hoping to go with my tiger stripe theme of pink, black and white. Oh well. I misjudged how much batter I needed for the stripes and had way too much for the stripes. I used a narrow mold....trying getting a hand in there! Impossible. But, it's soap and it smells delicious! It's a fruity blend with pinnapple, lemon, lime, peaches, and white gardenia. So yummy and pretty!<br />
<br />
No fancy photography here, but here it is!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG9-4YFmXDLE9N_lwbu_R6SRfBWyxiDnXWFrAMZh79PTzyBMcOee6_QsKt1uYRyUimEShB8zxBIgjr-oevsyfjJk6D2tCaMI-cgR4XeRAcULCtaoMd8yRWBqzO_-gjNAg_nRCvMeDNr3PT/s1600/leopard+spot+soap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG9-4YFmXDLE9N_lwbu_R6SRfBWyxiDnXWFrAMZh79PTzyBMcOee6_QsKt1uYRyUimEShB8zxBIgjr-oevsyfjJk6D2tCaMI-cgR4XeRAcULCtaoMd8yRWBqzO_-gjNAg_nRCvMeDNr3PT/s400/leopard+spot+soap.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Now I am going to admire what everyone else made and plan my next attempt. Hopefully I can do a video too! I will just have to do the exact opposite of my last attempt and then maybe it will work!<br />
<br />
On a side note, I got a new ideal for a soap design! I could just pipe stripes back and forth like I did on the top and get spots that way.Pattihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17610740911981067187noreply@blogger.com41tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4373636305256612655.post-9490669520439422162013-04-05T15:45:00.000-07:002013-04-06T07:19:28.886-07:00Amy's Soap Challenge 2013 - Elemental SwirlI was actually a little nervous to try the next soap challenge that Amy posted. This one is called an elemental swirl. Amy demonstates how to make it <a href="http://www.greatcakessoapworks.com/handmade-soap-blog/index.php/soap-challenge-2013-week-two/" target="_blank">here</a>. Basically it's a cool layer and a warm layer of soap separated by a mica line. I've never swirled this many colors before so I wanted to see if I could do it. The most important thing for me was to make sure my recipe was a slow mover and to use a very well behaved fragrance oil. I used Brambleberry's <a href="http://www.brambleberry.com/Energy-Fragrance-Oil-P3861.aspx" target="_blank">Energy fragrance oil</a> since I find that it does not accelerate trace. I just love this fragrance. Yum! <br />
<br />
I chose blue, green and white for the bottom and neon orange, neon yellow and white for the top. It's not something I would ever try on my own, but it was great to see what it would look like and best of all my husband likes it! My soap behaved perfectly and I actually think everything went very smoothly. I also tried a new recipe without cocoa butter. My experiment was to see if it was similar to my cocoa butter soap since I didn't stray very far from my favorite numbers in soapcalc. Sometimes I cringe when I use my expensive cocoa butter in soap! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwP8f47CUgask9UoNFS3Ugpfqr4xArsc4VeqpvKmBtl60YcIBtbwHfcTU33_DRGTdV5LAILyYdA9H1dpO-ao5n4HwjOI3hCKHcsh1l8Xf-3tpEg3bySDZY6hk_hlG0wYcvxzB_3dE1G1Og/s1600/elemental+swirl+black+border.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwP8f47CUgask9UoNFS3Ugpfqr4xArsc4VeqpvKmBtl60YcIBtbwHfcTU33_DRGTdV5LAILyYdA9H1dpO-ao5n4HwjOI3hCKHcsh1l8Xf-3tpEg3bySDZY6hk_hlG0wYcvxzB_3dE1G1Og/s400/elemental+swirl+black+border.JPG" width="296" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
As usual I made videos of the making and cutting of it. Nothing too exciting and the lighting wasn't perfect, but you'll get the idea of how I made it. Making and watching the videos helps me improve on my soaping skills. I finally didn't overblend my soap! <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/XvOtqk9MO50?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/n-0FPb9SVks?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
If you would like to see what everyone else made you can find it <a href="http://www.greatcakessoapworks.com/handmade-soap-blog/" target="_blank">here</a> on the link up page. <br />
<br />
I looked on Amy's <a href="http://www.greatcakessoapworks.com/handmade-soap-blog/index.php/soap-challenges-starting-up-march-24/" target="_blank">blog </a>and it appears that next week is mica swirl tops. I can't wait to try that one!<br />
<br />
Thanks for looking and happy soaping!Pattihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17610740911981067187noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4373636305256612655.post-76916528369810944432013-03-30T07:53:00.000-07:002017-04-08T07:02:08.183-07:00Amy's Soap Challenge 2013 - Tiger Stripe<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">It's that time of year again when Amy from Great Cakes Soapworks hosts the 2013 Soap Challenge! You can click <a href="http://www.greatcakessoapworks.com/handmade-soap-blog/index.php/soap-challenges-starting-up-march-24/" target="_blank">here</a> for all of the details of what she will be showing us each week. Week 1 was the tiger stripe and it's demonstrated <a href="http://www.greatcakessoapworks.com/handmade-soap-blog/index.php/soap-challenge-2013-week-one/" target="_blank">here</a> by Amy. I love her videos as she is very precise how she makes her soaps and I learn so much from her. I also love her soaps as they are very silky and oh so good for my skin! </span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I admit I had to take some time to think about how I would make my tiger stripe soap. Having never attempted such a technique I didn't want to just dive into this without planning. The hardest part was actually thinking about the color combination so I decided to just do what Amy did! </span><em style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; line-height: 16px;">Imitation</em><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: inherit; line-height: 16px;"> is the </span><em style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; line-height: 16px;">sincerest form of flattery</em><span style="font-family: inherit;">, right? ;-) </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I did a 16 oz batch and used titanium dioxide for the white (1/2 tsp in water), activated charcoal for black (1/2 tsp in water), and then a neon pink for the pink (1/4 tsp in glycerin). Then I emblelished the top with body safe glitter and candies. As I was making this soap I thought for sure it wouldn't turn out. The batter was getting thick and it wasn't pourable anymore. That's where a spoon can become your best friend. I think the key is to just keep alternating soap down the center of the mold (tapping down) and you will be okay! What do you think? I love it! </span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRa63SnEMpUZ8geYSvcErwMTrK3eN5jGYOx5YOMnHW6wxT__Z5ypubcYncwGYrv8IV58SRpVTnuLOpuNk2tFTHqQYmqYbZG6W8VDTFuam5hmJ57iwxkx8pBozm8uOr-2H3rhyphenhyphenXaCcfpdbk/s640/blogger-image--45360682.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRa63SnEMpUZ8geYSvcErwMTrK3eN5jGYOx5YOMnHW6wxT__Z5ypubcYncwGYrv8IV58SRpVTnuLOpuNk2tFTHqQYmqYbZG6W8VDTFuam5hmJ57iwxkx8pBozm8uOr-2H3rhyphenhyphenXaCcfpdbk/s640/blogger-image--45360682.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I also created videos of the making and cutting of the soaps. It was a big effort this time as editing was a pain, but I like to document my creations too. I can see what I should or shouldn't be doing like overblending! </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/e5K-7Mwh58A?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/QDxeVXBJ-6c?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
That's all she wrote for now. I am going to check out Amy's <a href="http://www.greatcakessoapworks.com/handmade-soap-blog/index.php/soap-challenge-2013-tiger-stripe-link-up/" target="_blank">Tiger Stripe Link-Up</a> page to see what everyone else created! Stayed tuned for the next challenge that she'll be showing us: Elemental Swirl. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Pattihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17610740911981067187noreply@blogger.com47tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4373636305256612655.post-46232953490392935902013-03-25T19:26:00.003-07:002013-03-26T09:16:56.550-07:00what was i thinking? formulating<div style="text-align: left;">
Do you remember when I said I was going to start a series called "What was I thinking?" Well, I think I'm ready. I came up with the idea when I was organizing and delcuttering for our move from Minnesota to Oregon and was amazed at how many ingredients I had and how many notebooks of ideas and formulations I had, but yet felt like I had nothing and too much at the same time. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Once in awhile I go through my formulating notebooks only to realize I keep trying to rediscover the same things! I see myself trying similar formuations for lotions or soap or bath fizzies, not realizing I've done them already. What a waste of time! How unorganized am I? I'm left brain, but yet I'm not. I have a minor in chemistry, I should know how to formulate. I do know, but sometimes it's not as fun as playing around I guess. Restraint...I have none.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Today I discovered a bath fizzy recipe from November 2011. I made it today and I like it. My notes say my friend likes it. Why did I not keep continuing to improve it? Obviously I didn't love it if I didn't make it again. If I combine the recipe I'm on now with this one I think I will be happy. Maybe that's formulating. But November 2011 to March 2013 is a long time to formulate something as simple as a bath fizzy and frankly not an earth shattering recipe either. Oh well...I think I learned a few things. Maybe I should come up with some rules for formulating....</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx1syJRsnNKeHmNgihDhacnOoB66AXNiLRLRnqTXYZ7uTsahV9T23kLqPgJZsteIIJYAka0uQ-yiWUZ6GyrW5KH8rYN0hkpG7QD4j48qs14PqaAz9B0zxWGjgGklvjb25K18iXcg3nZ20s/s1600/bath+fizzy+formulating.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx1syJRsnNKeHmNgihDhacnOoB66AXNiLRLRnqTXYZ7uTsahV9T23kLqPgJZsteIIJYAka0uQ-yiWUZ6GyrW5KH8rYN0hkpG7QD4j48qs14PqaAz9B0zxWGjgGklvjb25K18iXcg3nZ20s/s400/bath+fizzy+formulating.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The Rules of Formulating.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
1. Don't talk about formulating.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
2. Don't talk about formulating.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
wait...this isn't Fight Club!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
3. Figure out what you want to make.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
4. Study ingredients and recipes.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
5. Formulate a recipe.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
6. Try it out for awhile.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
7. Figure out if you like it or not. What do or don't you like about it? Try to pinpoint ingredients that you like and ingredients you don't like.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
8. TAKE NOTES!!! I want to slap myself silly on some of my recipes for not taking notes. Luckily I take notes on the recipes I do like, which is better than nothing. It would be nice to have more notes on things I don't like. You always think you'll remember something, but you won't.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
9. If you want to change the recipe, don't change too much at one time. The best way to test a recipe is to only change one ingredient at a time. Technically you should have your control recipe and then you could maybe make 3 other recipes changing one ingredient on each one and then compare. This way you can be sure what ingredient does what. I felt like I could change multiple things at the same time, but in the end it just confused me.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
10. Focus on your goal. Don't get sidetracked. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
11. On a side note...don't be afraid to think outside the box.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
12. If the recipe is going nowhere, ditch it, and start over! This is what I did with my body creams.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
13. Know when you're done and then pat yourself on the back.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Even though I haven't been the ideal formulator, there is a method to my madness. I have learned so much over the years and suddenly everything is coming together. I feel like I can formulate in an efficient manner now. I feel like I know what each ingredient can bring to a formulation. The perfectionist in me says it was a waste of time and money, but it was a hobby for me so it was okay to play around. Either way, I enjoyed a lot of the products. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I better go...I need to formulate. I will never stop!</div>
Pattihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17610740911981067187noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4373636305256612655.post-75550801799309052252013-03-16T14:01:00.001-07:002013-03-16T14:01:53.224-07:00body cream obsessionI've been quiet because I've been formulating body creams. It becomes an obsession because I have a look and feel that I'm envisioning. I don't like heavy creams. I want creamy, light, fluffy, smooth, shiny, and moisturizing. Many failed batches and two successes. Persistence pays off. I'll give myself that. I finally have two creams that I love....at least for now. Must.not.tinker.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhabrfaL1NLsMRvCF3XCYVPQi00D52ih4xly8nDbckj1qldGS9bAKe8X9sVHpMSEwuhMBFSGeKPpbPvNeLQAFiO_zwKPmhPTQBrPxu-8lLdOewZIkHmwS_GnxLrfsTkxkdhHI2zLKcLMGNT/s640/blogger-image-987544763.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhabrfaL1NLsMRvCF3XCYVPQi00D52ih4xly8nDbckj1qldGS9bAKe8X9sVHpMSEwuhMBFSGeKPpbPvNeLQAFiO_zwKPmhPTQBrPxu-8lLdOewZIkHmwS_GnxLrfsTkxkdhHI2zLKcLMGNT/s400/blogger-image-987544763.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Green Tea Dream Cream</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbhGfF0TOrNKpX7KxO-kwp9MitUmQb2e7miAzVKr5cAteUxbGz_45kBOCMd5_FMaxzGLSHflsAHRmeGd6xUnDUkPx0bP3AsTU4NHWLtjCDup2WZNBYfZxk5KM5uTDJx-eX4AtUl3lob1s5/s640/blogger-image-914051148.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbhGfF0TOrNKpX7KxO-kwp9MitUmQb2e7miAzVKr5cAteUxbGz_45kBOCMd5_FMaxzGLSHflsAHRmeGd6xUnDUkPx0bP3AsTU4NHWLtjCDup2WZNBYfZxk5KM5uTDJx-eX4AtUl3lob1s5/s400/blogger-image-914051148.jpg" width="390" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Lavender Martini Coconut Cream</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Pattihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17610740911981067187noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4373636305256612655.post-68341094815114506602013-03-15T10:16:00.001-07:002013-03-15T10:25:37.228-07:00less is more<span style="font-family: inherit;">I'm sitting here wondering what the heck I've been up to lately.....Everything? That's what I hate about my brain sometimes. It wants to learn and do everything. I've actually stopped myself from experimenting with too many products and have focused on finalizing my favorites. This only happens when I feel like I have a revelation or fantastic idea. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">My recent soaps have been my absolute favorites. I reduced my castor oil to almost nothing and added more olive oil and suddenly I have plenty of time to play with my batter. It has really saved me from failed batches. I had just about given up for awhile. The kicker is that I think it lathers better. It has a silkiness to it that I love. One of my favorites I'm using now is White Ginger & Amber from Brambleberry. I find it to be a unisex and calming, subtle fragrance. I used natural cocoa butter in this one. </span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPKG4jjhP2OrlBeJ4RgM979xKPWvbXGyDoj4ILj0G3hjPKyVSRQhBbVjYUUdfaSfyrv7JBEPe71KwBWA-wL_CVUv7X_XPpCKyZnTfaqKbVqYxfm6JTW5sbH-6DncDXgBDIsLqNT_2Ne-Dn/s1600/white+ginger+&+amber.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPKG4jjhP2OrlBeJ4RgM979xKPWvbXGyDoj4ILj0G3hjPKyVSRQhBbVjYUUdfaSfyrv7JBEPe71KwBWA-wL_CVUv7X_XPpCKyZnTfaqKbVqYxfm6JTW5sbH-6DncDXgBDIsLqNT_2Ne-Dn/s400/white+ginger+&+amber.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
<br />
I also made another batch of my Birthday Party Cake Fun soap! I love this one. I don't have any photos of it cut yet, but they are just simple white bars of soap. I have to make sure I use light oils to get a white bar (along with titanium dioxide). Here is a photo of my previous batch. I scented it with Green Tea from NG, which is probably my favorite fragrance right now. It's strong, behaves, and lasts and lasts.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i48.servimg.com/u/f48/15/78/67/15/green_16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="337" src="http://i48.servimg.com/u/f48/15/78/67/15/green_16.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I was also playing around with labeling my lip balms. Of course I had to name them after my dog, Milla! Not sure if everyone knows how to pronounce it, but it's mela with a long e. I randomly give these out to friends and soon my family and want them to be labeled. I like to know that they know what they are putting on their lips. I wasted a bunch of lip balms by trying to put the maximum amount of flavor in them, i.e. 3-4%, and I just wasn't happy. I felt like it changed the feel of them so I reduced the amount in half and I'm happy now. I think it just goes my whole philosophy....sometimes less is more.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgukgngg540efYMMokKycXTL6YcRYeoeVUg__TD2q0H9ixMqYp6rUYKpU_iRjwNeeQ4sZacbVinAX3jD6Fu0nB-6fxqRJTQ5cHvpJB7qr6r-Nxl3iMijWJZ3kpA2S4QBByCCtXI46sQZidi/s1600/unscented+lip+balms+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgukgngg540efYMMokKycXTL6YcRYeoeVUg__TD2q0H9ixMqYp6rUYKpU_iRjwNeeQ4sZacbVinAX3jD6Fu0nB-6fxqRJTQ5cHvpJB7qr6r-Nxl3iMijWJZ3kpA2S4QBByCCtXI46sQZidi/s400/unscented+lip+balms+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
On another note, spring is approaching (and sometimes retreating), but it makes me excited to get out and go mountain biking soon. I blinged up my bike with some cute tassels! We'll see how long they last or if they end up hitting trees or something. Maybe people will think I'm weird? That's okay, because I am!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdYqpvBrI3GavhMMHfMg8nU_dI3aQh1NMyctwMfEobvNJs4Gwbev1OzEVmAM5OVFvgnq03ZlZzJysxwZB5TTmkw7sfdV8_Sfv4rkvT4yDv1oQUddsqEHY4ZQqRelV39fjvFtmTzrfWoKtH/s1600/mountain+bike+bling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdYqpvBrI3GavhMMHfMg8nU_dI3aQh1NMyctwMfEobvNJs4Gwbev1OzEVmAM5OVFvgnq03ZlZzJysxwZB5TTmkw7sfdV8_Sfv4rkvT4yDv1oQUddsqEHY4ZQqRelV39fjvFtmTzrfWoKtH/s400/mountain+bike+bling.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Happy soaping!Pattihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17610740911981067187noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4373636305256612655.post-61825642795288535722013-02-17T13:52:00.002-08:002013-02-17T13:52:44.166-08:00It's not soap!<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I've been playing around with my bath fizzy recipe and design. I think I finally have a winner. I've been testing various ingredients and oils and fell in love with avocado oil. It seemed very silky in my bath water and I love that. I also use an emulsifier because I can't stand oil floating in my bath water. My goal is just to do simple, pretty colors. What do you think?</span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSg9xEshKE4TxiAluefs5IfKBi3xCru-SNkK4Ucv0hsu_DHMzeqPnH3rFNWigSnusAScyxURRv0DaDOmzahUBnN93qRg0PQWPp4ZMXjrZjukBVKH5VEpaDellIkScUZu6st9rDxgcnMPr8/s1600/cucumber+and+aloe+flower+fizzy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSg9xEshKE4TxiAluefs5IfKBi3xCru-SNkK4Ucv0hsu_DHMzeqPnH3rFNWigSnusAScyxURRv0DaDOmzahUBnN93qRg0PQWPp4ZMXjrZjukBVKH5VEpaDellIkScUZu6st9rDxgcnMPr8/s400/cucumber+and+aloe+flower+fizzy.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Scented with Cucumber and Aloe and colored with blue glycerin dye.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXfTnT9yW2o7s8MC1YI1jDykJArQNwEmdT4vpaJm81NfzJ-pakEcvmRNlhfP9XLMGjRzt2Gjxyo2KYAEq42zcJ0x8qrz7uL0je4ZTSHkGgqGQ_WGE72OJrt6Jsgk3Ad1Mk3OaBHKVBmjfv/s1600/bath+fizzy+blue+water.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXfTnT9yW2o7s8MC1YI1jDykJArQNwEmdT4vpaJm81NfzJ-pakEcvmRNlhfP9XLMGjRzt2Gjxyo2KYAEq42zcJ0x8qrz7uL0je4ZTSHkGgqGQ_WGE72OJrt6Jsgk3Ad1Mk3OaBHKVBmjfv/s400/bath+fizzy+blue+water.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Here's what the bath water looks like. Very spa-like!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvKMU7cnZ-tLR4OyosP0UImeyJE731-xPMKCXJsZPyaxCFYvUL8Fqqq3pkgQViFMuAvKe_oGFUerCf79-547IuyGBmdVd4za8wvahDhfwRzkGKGKoyA6vGN2gbNHCRN3cGhDUxZYT7rsWL/s1600/purple+and+pink+bath+fizzies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvKMU7cnZ-tLR4OyosP0UImeyJE731-xPMKCXJsZPyaxCFYvUL8Fqqq3pkgQViFMuAvKe_oGFUerCf79-547IuyGBmdVd4za8wvahDhfwRzkGKGKoyA6vGN2gbNHCRN3cGhDUxZYT7rsWL/s400/purple+and+pink+bath+fizzies.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I love pink and purple! </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I thought I would also include a photo of my final salt scrub. I've really fallen in love with this one. My goal was to create a white scrub that looked fluffy on day 1 as well as day 30. I chose fine sea salt instead of sugar because it seems to last in the shower, exfoliate, and make my skin glow. The downside of salt is that it can sting if you have a cut on your skin, but it's something I can live with! This one is scented with fluffy pink candy and it's yummy! I may even include colored jojoba spheres to give it some extra bling of color. I'm always working on other projects, but these are my prettiest ones so far.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivGh9bt8slXSfBbP9uOYCMNR1yx0_rMR4Qtyqb5oIQBRQG87wZctM0UNaUKivJokm0jl02UvMJyOT8d3cuGxCFm7VQSGLGR0YFkItmo6x5XDTEan1RFfBwanHGPFFk9VETdAyyXppyd-bl/s1600/fluffy+pink+candy+salt+scrub.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivGh9bt8slXSfBbP9uOYCMNR1yx0_rMR4Qtyqb5oIQBRQG87wZctM0UNaUKivJokm0jl02UvMJyOT8d3cuGxCFm7VQSGLGR0YFkItmo6x5XDTEan1RFfBwanHGPFFk9VETdAyyXppyd-bl/s400/fluffy+pink+candy+salt+scrub.jpg" width="369" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Pattihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17610740911981067187noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4373636305256612655.post-60352582943603236422012-12-20T11:05:00.000-08:002012-12-20T11:05:31.629-08:00rosemary mint salt barsYou'd think I would quit making salt bars by now! I make them all the time it seems. Only recently have I figured out my recipe and actually feel like they are salt bars. I want them to feel heavy and to feel smooth like stone when I use them. I also enjoy the creamy lather and the way my skin feels after I use them.<br />
<br />
My latest batch is scented with rosemary mint, which is one of my favorite fragrances. It always seems to make me feel good when I smell it. I decided to go for simple and elegant and keep it a creamy off-white with clay and mica. I sprinkled in some dill weed to give it that herbal look. I also used one of my favorite molds for salt bars. This shape seems to fit in my hand well. Now I just have wait for these to cure. I think that's the hardest part about making soap!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i13.servimg.com/u/f13/15/78/67/15/rosema10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="311" src="http://i13.servimg.com/u/f13/15/78/67/15/rosema10.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
If you're really bored you can watch my video of me making these!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/KURTG1O3UUY?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />Pattihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17610740911981067187noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4373636305256612655.post-78717498268802742492012-12-06T19:52:00.000-08:002012-12-06T19:52:36.414-08:00adventures in rain and snowI know I should be posting photos of my White Christmas soap, but I just can't seem to capture it. I think I tried once and gave up. It's a white soap with glitter and I need to think about how I should show it. Until then, I thought I would share some photos of some of my adventures and food.<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The weather has been all over the place, but at least the temperatures have been nice for winter. Moderate or mild I guess I would say.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I went on a nice trail run before I ate my Thanksgiving dinner. It's kind of a tradition for me and my husband to hike before a holiday. He wasn't able to go so I went for a run by myself and enjoyed the scenery.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i48.servimg.com/u/f48/15/78/67/15/trail_10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i48.servimg.com/u/f48/15/78/67/15/trail_10.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Next came the rain thanks to the Pineapple Express weather system out in California. I never thought I would see the sun again or that the rain would ever end. I suppose I'm being a little bit dramatic.... But, we were troopers and got dressed in our rain gear to go see a bike film. We HAD to ride our bikes! To top it off it was dark so we had lots of lights on our bikes! It turned out to be so much fun and I'm so glad we did it. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i48.servimg.com/u/f48/15/78/67/15/biking10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i48.servimg.com/u/f48/15/78/67/15/biking10.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Next came the snow! We both love snow because that means cross country skiing! What better place to ski than in the mountains. It felt like a winter wonderland and it was so refreshing.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i48.servimg.com/u/f48/15/78/67/15/skiing10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i48.servimg.com/u/f48/15/78/67/15/skiing10.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Next came more rain and rain and rain! I'm not sure how much we had, but I was very happy to finally see the sun again. To celebrate I made homemade tomato soup and homemade bread for my grilled cheese sandwich. I just love comfort food.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i48.servimg.com/u/f48/15/78/67/15/comfor10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i48.servimg.com/u/f48/15/78/67/15/comfor10.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Today I woke up to another sunny day and knew I had to enjoy it and recharge my body and brain. There was frost on the plants and the sun was making an appearance. These trees caught my eye and somehow they seemed beautiful to me. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i48.servimg.com/u/f48/15/78/67/15/they_c10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i48.servimg.com/u/f48/15/78/67/15/they_c10.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I will leave you with this as I decide what to make for dinner tonight. Maybe some soup (not soap).</div>
Pattihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17610740911981067187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4373636305256612655.post-47391183898027786132012-11-09T11:57:00.000-08:002012-12-20T11:05:54.721-08:00Making Energy salt bars with my new Brambleberry slab mold!<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">I have always wanted to make salt bars in a slab mold with dividers. If any of you watch my videos you'll know I like to make salt bars! I also can't cut soap from slab molds worth a darn either! </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">I was in love with the "<a href="http://www.soapqueen.com/bath-and-body-tutorials/cold-process-soap/pretty-in-pink-salty-cold-process/" target="_blank">Pretty in Pink</a>" salt bars </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">from Brambleberry, which inspired me to buy their </span><a href="http://www.brambleberry.com/9-Bar-Unfinished-Birchwood-Mold-P5169.aspx" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">9 Bar Birchwood Slab Mold</span></span>.</a><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"> I used my own recipe and chose neon yellow and pink for the colors and Brambleberry's Energy fragrance oil. I knew it was a well behaved fragrance, which is perfect swirling.</span></span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;" />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">I'm so happy with the size, shape and color of these. They even match my blog design. The fragrance is such a yummy citrus scent too. Very refreshing. Now to wait for the cure. I bet I can use these by Christmas time!</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i48.servimg.com/u/f48/15/78/67/15/p1010411.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="376" src="http://i48.servimg.com/u/f48/15/78/67/15/p1010411.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i48.servimg.com/u/f48/15/78/67/15/p1010412.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="367" src="http://i48.servimg.com/u/f48/15/78/67/15/p1010412.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i48.servimg.com/u/f48/15/78/67/15/p1010413.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="273" src="http://i48.servimg.com/u/f48/15/78/67/15/p1010413.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">In case you haven't subscribed to me on YouTube, here is the video!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/2zYLHZ7kTT8?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span>Pattihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17610740911981067187noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4373636305256612655.post-42480635262198085972012-11-02T10:15:00.000-07:002012-11-02T10:15:07.595-07:00Moonlight Pomegranate<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I was thinking about what soap I would like to use this winter. I wanted something fruity, but not candy fruity. I had a sample of Moonlight Pomegranate from Brambleberry that I thought would be perfect. The recipe was a departure from my normal recipe as I decided to use lard along with my olive oil, organic palm oil and castor oil. I think I'm getting the hang of swirling!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i48.servimg.com/u/f48/15/78/67/15/moonli10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i48.servimg.com/u/f48/15/78/67/15/moonli10.jpg" width="253" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i48.servimg.com/u/f48/15/78/67/15/moonli11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i48.servimg.com/u/f48/15/78/67/15/moonli11.jpg" width="278" /></a></div>
<br />Pattihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17610740911981067187noreply@blogger.com11